Islamabad: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted a seminar on “Unlocking the Potential of Blue Economy and Pakistan’s National Security.” in collaboration with National Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA). The seminar provided a comprehensive discourse on the strategic significance of Pakistan’s maritime resources and their impact on national security. Syed Zafar Ali Shah, Federal Secretary of MOMA, emphasized the government’s initiatives to advance the Blue Economy, including enhancing port capabilities and expanding shipbuilding efforts. His focus on internal strength and environmental sustainability was pivotal to boosting maritime influence.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood reiterated the critical role of the Blue Economy in securing Pakistan’s future. He highlighted the country’s maritime assets, stressing the need to shift from a continental mindset to embracing maritime industries. Pakistan’s position in the Indian Ocean and its concerns over the Indo-Pacific strategy were underscored, alongside the strategic importance of Gwadar Port in CPEC.
Malik Qasim Mustafa emphasized the protection of sea lines of communication as vital to Pakistan’s trade and security. He called for a robust maritime policy to address challenges in maritime governance and resource management, linking these to the broader national security agenda.
Ambassador Masood Khalid explored the geostrategic importance of the Arabian Sea in the Indo-Pacific narrative, outlining the challenges posed by regional power dynamics and the U.S.-India partnership. He called attention to non-traditional threats and the geopolitical shifts shaping maritime security.
Dr. Nazir Hussain focused on the untapped potential of Pakistan’s coastline and EEZ. He urged national awareness of the Blue Economy, advocating for a shift to sea-based strategies that could unlock substantial economic benefits while enhancing national security.
Rear Admiral Faisal Ali Shah addressed maritime security concerns, particularly regarding India’s advancements in military AI and the Indo-Pacific Strategy. He emphasized opportunities in regional cooperation, coastal tourism, and overcoming ‘sea blindness.’
In conclusion, Vice Admiral Ahmed Saeed stressed the ethical responsibility of preserving ecosystems, the need for depoliticizing Gwadar, and enhancing port security. The seminar successfully highlighted the link between maritime opportunities and Pakistan’s national security, calling for actionable policies and greater collaboration to harness the full potential of the Blue Economy.
